Looking up to the mountains

Most of us are here for those big ol peaks surrounding us, and its high time we paid our respects. One way to do it is by attending the Whistler Film Festivals
Tribute to the Mountains
, a two-night celebration of photography, mountain culture and two special film screenings.

The United Nations declared 2002 the International Year of the Mountain, recognizing that mountain areas are valuable yet fragile resources. Mountains provide most of the world's fresh water, harbour as much or more biodiversity as any other area, are home to at least one in 10 people and are one of the world's most important tourist destinations.

Whistler Film Festival promoter, Shauna Hardy, said including the International Year of the Mountain in the WFFs program was a must.

"It gave us a unique opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate mountains, mountain people and mountain culture, and to highlight the pressing need to find innovative ways to care for our natural environment and to sustain our community and success."

Tribute to the Mountains
takes place Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7 at Millennium Place, opening both nights at 6:30 p.m. with a photography exhibit. More than 30 images submitted from Sea to Sky photographers will be showcased. Attendees will have a chance to vote for the Best Mountain Culture Photograph of the Festival at both shows. Several of the photos will be put up for silent auction.

Two film presentations will follow.
Farther Than the Eye Can See
highlights the inspirational story of Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind man to reach the summit of Everest, and the relentless spirit of his team.
Ansel Adams: A Documentary Film
is a compelling tribute to one of the most recognized photographers in the world on his centennial.

Tickets for Tribute to the Mountains cost $15 and are available from Millennium Place, Nesters Market, Bestsellers and through the Whistler Information & Activity Centre charge-by-phone line, 604-938-2769.